Veronica hybrid 'Purple Leia' PPAF (Speedwell)

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators are drawn to the nectar-rich flowers.
• Wildlife Resistant: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits, making it a reliable choice for gardens.

• Foliage Season: Herbaceous perennial (dies back in winter, re-emerging in spring).
• Flowering Season: Late spring to summer (May to July).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-9

• Cottage gardens
• Pollinator gardens
• Borders and mixed plantings
• Containers and patio gardens
• Low-maintenance landscapes

• Color: Dark green.
• Form: Ovate, serrated leaves that form a dense, attractive mound at the base of the plant.
• Fall Interest: Foliage may turn slightly yellow in fall before dying back for winter.

• Color: Rich purple to violet flowers.
• Form: Upright spikes densely packed with small, tubular flowers that create a striking display.
• Bloom Time: Flowers bloom from late spring through early summer, providing a prolonged show of color.
• Fragrance: Lightly fragrant, attracting pollinators.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart for optimal growth and airflow.

• Timing: Deadhead spent flowers throughout the blooming season to encourage further blooming and tidy appearance.
• Method: In late fall, cut back the foliage to ground level to prepare for new growth in spring.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, 'Purple Leia' is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture during dry spells.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers evenly moist soil; avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot.

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended for optimal flowering and growth.

– Flowers can be harvested when the spikes are about half to three-quarters open for longest vase life

– Cut flower stems early in the morning when moisture levels are highest

– Excellent for fresh cut arrangements – long-lasting blooms in vases

– Can also be dried by hanging upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated space

– Deadheading regularly promotes reblooming and prolongs the flowering season

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring as new growth begins.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from temperature extremes.
• Drought Tolerance: While it prefers consistently moist soil, 'Purple Leia' can tolerate brief dry spells once established.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free; however, ensure good air circulation to prevent any fungal issues in overly humid conditions.

• Pollination Type: Pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other insects attracted to the nectar-rich flowers. The plant is self-pollinating but benefits from cross-pollination.
• Fruit Production: May produce small seeds after flowering, but primarily valued for its ornamental features.

• Echinacea (Coneflower)
• Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan)
• Astilbe
• Daylilies